AU2020264401B2

AU2020264401B2 - Panel joining arrangement for a vehicle canopy

Info

Publication number: AU2020264401B2
Application number: AU2020264401A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Michael Voss
Original assignee: Rock Solid Industries International Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Rock Solid Industries International Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2019-11-06
Filing date: 2020-11-06
Publication date: 2025-10-30
Anticipated expiration: 2040-11-06
Also published as: US20240140180A1; US20210129643A1; ZA202209080B; US20220332176A1; AU2020264401A1; ZA202007083B; US11801738B2; US11376937B2

Abstract

The invention relates to a panel joining arrangement for a vehicle canopy. The vehicle canopy includes at least one three panel join where a side panel, roof panel and end panel of the vehicle canopy meet. The panel joining arrangement comprises first and second lip portions formed in the side panel of the vehicle canopy and a third lip portion formed in the roof panel. The first and second lip portions are longitudinally offset and transversely overlapping in relation to a length of the side panel. The third lip portion is configured to mate with the second lip portion at the three panel join of the vehicle canopy such that the third lip portion is located adjacent to and substantially flush with the first lip portion. FIGURE FOR PUBLICATION Figure 19

Description

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230 230 290 290 Figure 19 Figure 19 232 232

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Figure 20 Figure 20

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PANEL JOINING ARRANGEMENT FORAAVEHICLE VEHICLE CANOPY CANOPY 2020264401 06 Nov 2020

PANEL JOINING ARRANGEMENT FOR

Cross referencetotorelated Cross reference relatedapplication application

55 The The present present applicationclaims application claimspriority priority from from South African Provisional SouthAfrican Provisional Patent Patent Application No. Application No. 2019/07353 filed on 2019/07353 filed on 66 November November 2019, 2019, thethe entire entire contents contents of of which which

are incorporateherein are incorporate hereinby by reference. reference.

Field of Field of the the invention invention

0 0

The inventionrelates, The invention relates,generally, generally,totovehicle vehiclecanopies canopies and and to kits to kits for for assembling assembling vehicle vehicle

canopies. More canopies. More specifically, specifically, the the invention invention relates relates to a to a panel panel joining joining arrangement arrangement for for such kit or such aakit or vehicle vehicle canopy. canopy.

Background 55 Background to the to the invention invention

For purposes For purposesof of interpreting interpreting this this specification, specification, thethe term term "canopy" "canopy" or "vehicle or "vehicle canopy" canopy"

refers to refers to aa cover coverfor foraaload loadbin binofofa avehicle vehicle such such as aas a "bakkie", "bakkie", as they as they are generally are generally

knownininSouth known South Africa, Africa, or or a utility vehicle a utility vehicleororpick-up pick-uptruck, truck,asasthey theyarearegenerally generally known known

.0 elsewhere 'O elsewhere in in theworld. the world.

The Applicantpreviously The Applicant previously developed developed a flat a flat packpack kit for kit for a canopy. a canopy. Theincludes The kit kit includes a roofa roof

panel, side panel, sidepanels panelsandand oneone or more or more end panels end panels (e.g. a (e.g. frontand front apanel panel andpanel). a rear a rear panel). The panelsareare The panels specifically specifically shaped, shaped, dimensioned dimensioned and configured and configured to be to be flat flat and packed packed and 25 assembled 25 assembled and kit and the the can kit can thus thus be be distributedasasa acomplete distributed completeknock-down knock-down (CKD). (CKD). The The basic concept basic concept ofofthe thekit kit is is described described inin Patent PatentCooperation Cooperation Treaty Treaty (PCT) (PCT) Patent Patent

Application No. Application No.PCT/1B2015/057124, PCT/IB2015/057124, published publishedasasWO/2016/024494 on 24 WO/2016/024494 on 24 March March 2016, whichis isincorporated 2016, which incorporated by reference by reference herein. herein.

30 TheThe 30 Applicant's Applicant's kitkithas hasbeen beencommercially commercially successful.TheThe successful. Applicant Applicant believes believes thatthe that the success success ofofthe thekitkitcan canbebe attributedat atleast attributed leastininpart parttotoits its knock-down knock-downconstruction and and construction robust features. robust features. A Anumber number of different of different ranges, ranges, variations variations and modifications and modifications have have been been introducedover introduced overthetheyears years to to expand expand onenhance on and and enhance the Applicant's the Applicant's product product offering. offering.

2

However,designing designinga aCKD CKD which, when assembled and installed, satisfactorilyseals seals 2020264401 06 Nov 2020

However, which, when assembled and installed, satisfactorily

off off the the interior interiorofof the thecanopy canopy has remained has remained a challenge. a challenge. Small Small spaces spaces orbetween or gaps gaps between adjacent parts of adjacent parts of the the assembled canopyallow assembled canopy allowfor forthe the passage passageofofwater, water,dust dustand/or and/or other unwanted other unwanted particles particles into into thethe interior interior of of thecanopy. the canopy. 5 5

Referring specifically Referring specificallytotowater waterleaks, leaks, thethe Applicant Applicant has found has found that that the the zones corner corner zones wherethe where theroof roofpanel panel meets meets with with respective respective sideend/junction side and and end/junction panels panels are proneare to prone to waterleakage. water leakage.In the In the context context of this of this specification, specification, the term the term "three "three panel panel corner corner join" join" or simply"three or simply "threepanel paneljoin" join"isisused usedtotorefer refertotothe thezone zone where where a roof a roof panelpanel meets meets with with 0 0 aa side side and end panel and end panel(or (orother similar panel). other similar panel). The Thecanopy canopytypically typically includes includes aa roof roof panel, two panel, opposing side two opposing side panels, panels,aafront front panel panel and anda arear rearpanel, panel, in in which which case casethe the canopy therefore canopy therefore defines defines four four three three panel panel joins. joins.

By way By wayofofexample, example, Figures Figures 1 to 1 4toillustrate 4 illustrate gaps gaps formed formed at three at the the three panel panel joins joins of twoof two 5 of of 5 thetheApplicant's known Applicant'sknown canopies. canopies.

Figures 11 and Figures and 22 show showa gap a gap 102102 in ain first a firstcanopy. canopy.TheThe firstcanopy first canopy is is shown shown in ain a partially assembled partially condition, assembled condition, with with a roof a roof panel panel 104 104 in the in the process process of being of being connected connected

to aa side to side panel panel 106. 106. The Thegapgap 102102 is formed is formed as aasresult a result of the of the roof roof panel panel 104 104 not not .0 abutting 'O abuttingthe theside sidepanel panel106 106at atthe thethree threepanel paneljoin join116. 116.More More specifically,ananouter specifically, outer surface 108ofofa alip surface 108 lip 110 110ofofthe theroof roofpanel panel104104 is is notnot adjacent adjacent to and to and flush flush withwith an outer an outer

surface 112ofofa alip surface 112 lip 114 114ofofthe theside sidepanel panel 106106 (no (no end end panelpanel is shown is shown in Figures in Figures 1 and 1 and

to illustrate 22 to illustratethe the gap 102 more gap 102 moreclearly). clearly).

25 Figures 25 Figures 3 and 3 and 4 show 4 show a gap a gap 118a atthree 118 at a three panel panel joinjoin of of a second a second canopy canopy which which is inis in an assembledcondition, an assembled condition,with with aa roof roof panel 120 connected panel 120 connectedtoto aa side side panel panel 122 122 and andanan end panel126. end panel 126.Figure Figure 3 illustrates 3 illustrates the the canopy canopy fromfrom the inside the inside whilewhile Figure Figure 4 illustrates 4 illustrates

the canopy the canopyfrom fromthe theoutside. outside.TheThe gapgap 118 118 is formed is formed as a as a result result of the of the design design as as explained withreference explained with referenceto to Figures Figures 1 and 1 and 2 above. 2 above. It will It will be appreciated be appreciated thatgaps that the the gaps 30 102102 30 andand 118 118 may may allowallow water water to enter to enter the the canopy. canopy.

In an In attempttoto address an attempt addressthis thisissue, issue,sealant, sealant, e.g.silicone e.g. siliconesealant, sealant, can can be be applied applied at the at the

three panel three paneljoins joinsafter afterassembly assembly of the of the vehicle vehicle canopy. canopy. However, However, this is undesirable this is undesirable

as the kit as the kit is is preferably providedtotoa acustomer preferably provided customer in flat in flat pack pack formform andmayit be and it may be difficult difficult

3

for and/or undesirabletoto have a customer carry carry outsealing the sealing step. If the sealant is 2020264401 06 Nov 2020

for and/or undesirable have a customer out the step. If the sealant is

not applied not appliedproperly, properly,gaps gaps willwill stillbebe still present present at three at the the three panel panel joins, joins, resulting resulting in in possibleleaks. possible leaks.Furthermore, Furthermore, thisthis additional additional stepstep adds adds to thetocost the associated cost associated with thewith the product and product and unwanted unwantedtime timeisis spent spenton on sealing sealing the the canopy. canopy. 5 5

The present The present invention invention aims aims to address to address or alleviate or alleviate the issue the issue described described above, above, at leastat least

to some to extent. some extent.

Any reference Any referencetoto oror discussion discussionofofany anydocument, document, actact or item or item of of knowledge knowledge in this in this

0 0 specification isis included specification includedsolely solelyfor forthe thepurpose purpose of providing of providing a context a context forpresent for the the present invention. ItIt isis not invention. not suggested or represented suggested or representedthat thatanyany of these of these matters matters or or any any combination thereof combination thereof formed formed at the at the priority priority date date part part of of thethe common common general general knowledge, knowledge,

or or was known was known to to be be relevant relevant to to an an attempt attempt to solve to solve any any problem problem with which with which this this

specification is specification is concerned. concerned. 55 Summary Summary ofofthe theinvention invention

In accordance In with accordance with a first a first aspect aspect of invention, of the the invention, there there is provided is provided panel a panel ajoining joining arrangement arrangement forfor a vehicle a vehicle canopy, canopy, the canopy the canopy including including at leastatone least onepanel three three panel join, join,

.0 wherein 'O wherein thethe panel panel joiningarrangement joining arrangement comprises comprises firstand first andsecond secondliplipportions portions formed formed in aa side in side panel panelofofthethe canopy, canopy, the first the first and and second second lip portions lip portions being longitudinally being longitudinally

offset offset and transverselyoverlapping and transversely overlapping in relation in relation to atolength a length of the of the sideside panel, panel, the panel the panel

joining arrangement joining arrangement further further comprising comprising a third a third lip portion lip portion formed formed in a panel in a roof roof panel of the of the canopy, wherein canopy, wherein the the third third liplip portion portion is is configured configured to mate to mate with with the second the second lip portion lip portion

25 at the 25 at the three three panel panel join join of canopy of the the canopy such such that that the thelip third third lip portion portion is located is located adjacent adjacent

to and substantially flush with the first lip portion. to and substantially flush with the first lip portion.

The third lip The third lip portion maybebelocated portion may located in in abutment abutment with with the first the first lip lip portion. portion.

30 The 30 The arrangement arrangement maymay be configured be configured such such that,ininananassembled that, assembledcondition condition of of the the canopy, canopy, anan outer outer surface surface of the of the first first liplipportion portionis issubstantially substantially flush flush with with andand laterally laterally

adjacent toananouter adjacent to outersurface surface of the of the third third liplip portion.TheThe portion. arrangement arrangement may be may further further be configured such configured such that, that, in in thethe assembled assembled condition, condition, an surface an outer outer surface of thelip of the second second lip

4

portion, or or at least aa substantial at least substantial part part thereof, thereof, directly directly faces an inner inner surface surfaceofofthe thethird third 2020264401 06 Nov 2020

portion, faces an

lip portion. lip portion.

The arrangement The arrangementmaymay further further include include a sealing a sealing material material which, which, in the in the assembled assembled

5 condition, 5 condition, is located is located between between the surface the outer outer surface of the lip of the second second lip and portion portion and the the inner inner surface ofthe surface of the third third lip lip portion. portion. The sealingmaterial The sealing materialmaymay be sealing be sealing foam foam tape applied tape applied

to an to interior of an interior of the the roof roof panel. panel.

Thearrangement The arrangementmay may further further include include a fourth a fourth lip portion lip portion formed formed in an in an end endofpanel panel the of the 0 canopy 0 canopy and configured and configured to matetowith mate at with leastat least the thelip third third lip portion portion at the at the panel three threejoin. panel join. Thefourth The fourthlip lipportion portionpreferably preferably also also mates mates withfirst with the the lip firstportion lip portion adjacent adjacent to the to the three panel three panel join. join. The Theend endpanel panelis ispreferably preferablya afront frontpanel panelorora arear rearpanel panelofofthe the canopy. canopy.

5 TheThe 5 lip lip portionsreferred portions referred toto above abovemay maybebe by by formed formed or or maymay form form part part of of bends bends in in the the

side side panel, panel, roof roof panel panel or or end end panel panel of of the the canopy, canopy, as the case as the maybe. case may be.TheThe bends bends

maybebe9090degree may degreebends bends or or near near 9090 degree degree bends. bends.

In some In embodiment, some embodiment, the third the third lip lip portion portion is defined is defined by aby a return return bend bend of theofroof the panel. roof panel. .0 'O

The first The first lip lipportion may portion maybe be located located at at an an end of the end of the side side panel panel and the second and the secondlip lip portion may portion maylocated located inwardly inwardly (e.g. (e.g. slightlyinwardly slightly inwardly relative relative to to the the first lip first lip portion) portion) along along

the length the length of of the the side sidepanel, panel,thereby therebytoto define define a space a space for for receiving receiving the the third third lip lip portion portion

in the in the assembled condition assembled condition of the of the vehicle vehicle canopy. canopy.

25 25

In accordance In with aasecond accordance with second aspect aspect of of thethe invention, invention, thereis isprovided there provideda kit a kitfor fora a canopy to bebefitted canopy to fitted to to aa vehicle, vehicle, the the kit kit including including aa panel panel joining joining arrangement arrangement asas

described above. The described above. Thekit kit may maybebea aCKD. CKD.

30 In In 30 accordance accordance withwith a thirdaspect a third aspect ofofthe theinvention, invention, there there is is provided provided aa vehicle vehiclecanopy canopy

whichincludes which includesat at leasta aside least side panel panel and and a roof a roof panel panel engaging engaging with anwith end an endat panel panel a at a three panel three paneljoin joinofofthe thecanopy, canopy, wherein wherein first first andand second second lip portions lip portions are formed are formed in the in the side panel, the side panel, the first first and secondliplipportions and second portionsbeing beinglongitudinally longitudinally offsetandand offset transversely transversely

overlapping overlapping ininrelation relationtotoa alength lengthof ofthethecanopy, canopy, wherein wherein a third a third lip portion lip portion is formed is formed

5

in the roof panel, panel,the thethird third lip lip portion portion mating mating with thethe second lip portion at three the three 2020264401 06 Nov 2020

in the roof with second lip portion at the

panel join panel join such suchthat thatthe thethird thirdliplipportion portionisislocated locatedadjacent adjacent to and to and substantially substantially flushflush

with the first lip portion. with the first lip portion.

5 As As 5 mentioned mentioned above, above, a fourth a fourth lip portion lip portion maymay in thein end be formed be formed the panel end panel and and may may matewith mate withatatleast leastthe thethird third lip lip portion portion at at the the three three panel paneljoin. join.

In accordance In with accordance with a fourth a fourth aspect aspect of the of the invention, invention, there there is provided is provided a vehicle a vehicle canopy canopy

including four including four three panel joins three panel joins and and aa panel joiningarrangement paneljoining arrangement substantiallyas as substantially

0 described 0 described above above associated associated withwith eacheach of the of the three three panel panel joins. joins.

The canopymaymay The canopy be fittedto toanyany be fitted suitablevehicle, suitable vehicle,such suchas as a motor a motor vehicle vehicle (e.g. (e.g. a a

bakkie), aa caravan bakkie), caravanand/or and/or a trailer. a trailer.

5 Brief 5 Briefdescription of the description of the drawings drawings

Theinvention The inventionwill willnow nowbe be further further described, described, by of by way way of example, example, with reference with reference to the to the accompanying drawings. accompanying drawings.

.0 InInthe 'O thedrawings: drawings: Figure 11 Figure is aa three-dimensional is three-dimensional view view of of an an example of aa gap example of gapformed formedatata a three panel three paneljoin joinofofaa known known vehicle vehicle canopy; canopy;

Figure 22 Figure is another is three-dimensional another three-dimensional viewview of the of the gap formed gap formed at the at the three three panel join panel join of of the the vehicle vehiclecanopy canopyof of Figure Figure 1; 1; 25 Figure 25 Figure33 is aa three-dimensional is three-dimensional view viewillustrating illustrating an an example exampleof of a gap a gap

formedatata athree formed threepanel panel join join of of another another known known vehicle vehicle canopy; canopy;

Figure 44 Figure is another is three-dimensional another three-dimensional view view illustrating illustrating the formed the gap gap formed at at the three the three panel paneljoin joinofofthe thevehicle vehiclecanopy canopy of Figure of Figure 3; 3; Figure 55 Figure is aa three-dimensional is view three-dimensional view of of an an embodiment embodiment of apanel of a side side for panel for 30 30 aa canopy, canopy, shown shownininananupside upsidedown down orientationand orientation and showing showing an an

interior/inside of interior/inside of the side panel, the side panel,wherein whereinthethe side side panel panel includes includes

parts of parts of aa panel paneljoining joining arrangement arrangement according according to thetoinvention; the invention; Figure 66 Figure is an is an enlarged view enlarged view of of zone zone "B""B" in Figure in Figure 5; 5;

6

Figure 77 is aa three-dimensional, partiallyexploded exploded view of embodiment an embodiment 2020264401 06 Nov 2020

Figure is three-dimensional, partially view of an

of aa roof of roof panel panel for for aa canopy, canopy,showing showing an interior/inside an interior/inside of the of the roofroof

panel, wherein panel, roof panel the roof wherein the panelincludes includespart paneljoining partofofa apanel joining arrangement according arrangement according to invention; to the the invention; 5 5 Figure 88 Figure is an is an enlarged view enlarged view of of zone zone "A""A" in Figure in Figure 7; 7; Figures 99 and Figures and1010 are three-dimensional views are three-dimensional viewsillustrating illustrating aa prototype prototype ofof a aside side panel with panel with lip lip portions portionsaccording accordinganan embodiment of to embodiment of to the the invention; invention;

Figures 11 Figures 11 to to 13 13 areare three-dimensional three-dimensional views views of anofembodiment an embodiment illustrating illustrating the the 0 0 whichside mannerinin which manner side and androof roof panels panels can can be bejoined according to joined according to the invention; the invention; Figures 14 Figures 14 to to 16 16 areare three-dimensional three-dimensional views views of anofembodiment an embodiment illustrating illustrating the the manner inin which manner which side, side, roof roof and and end endpanels panelscan canbe be joined joined according according totothe theinvention; invention; 5 Figures 5 Figures 17 and 17 and 18 three-dimensional 18 are are three-dimensional viewsviews illustrating illustrating an interior/inside andanan an interior/insideand exterior/outside of an exterior/outside of an example exampleof of a canopy a canopy which which includes includes a panel a panel

joining arrangement joining arrangement according according to invention; to the the invention; Figure 19 Figure 19 is aa three-dimensional is exploded three-dimensional exploded viewview of a of a side side panel, panel, a roof a roof panelpanel

and an end and an end panel panel of of aa canopy including an canopy including an embodiment of aa panel embodiment of panel 0 'O joining arrangement joining arrangement according according to invention; to the the invention; Figure 20 Figure 20 is an is an enlarged view of enlarged view of zone zone"C" "C"inin Figure Figure19, 19,including including hidden hidden detail; detail;

Figure 21 Figure 21 is aa three-dimensional is view three-dimensional view of of thethe side side panel, panel, roofroof panel panel and and end end panel ofof Figure panel Figure1919ininananassembled assembled condition; condition; and and 25 Figure 25 Figure22 22 is an is an enlarged view enlarged view of of zone zone "D""D" in Figure in Figure 21. 21.

Detailed description Detailed description with withreference referencetotothe thedrawings drawings

Thefollowing The followingdescription description of of thethe invention invention is provided is provided as anas an enabling enabling teachingteaching of the of the 30 invention, 30 invention, is illustrativeofofthe is illustrative theprinciples principlesofofthe theinvention invention andand is not is not intended intended to limit to limit thethe

scope of the scope of the invention. invention. It Itwill will be be understood understoodthat thatchanges changes can can be to be made made the to the embodiment/s described embodiment/s described and depicted, and depicted, while while still still attaining attaining beneficial beneficial results results of the of the presentinvention. present invention.Furthermore, Furthermore, it willbebeunderstood it will understood thatthat somesome benefits benefits of theof the present present

invention can invention canbebe attained attained by selecting by selecting some some of the of the features features of the present of the present invention invention

7

without utilising utilising other features. Accordingly, Accordingly,those those skilled in in thethe artart willrecognise recognise that 2020264401 06 Nov 2020

without other features. skilled will that

modifications and modifications adaptations to and adaptations to the the present present invention invention are are possible possibleand and can can even be even be

desirable in certain desirable in certain circumstances, circumstances,and and are are a part a part of present of the the present invention. invention.

5 Figures 5 Figures 5 8toillustrate 5 to 8 illustrateanan example example embodiment embodiment of a joining of a panel panel joining arrangement arrangement

according according totothe theinvention. invention.Figures Figures 5 6and 5 and 6 illustrate illustrate a side a side panelpanel 130 130 and and Figures Figures 7 7 and illustrate aa roof and 88illustrate roof panel panel132. 132.

It should It be understood should be understood that that thethe side side panel panel 130 130 and panel and roof roof panel 132 may132 may form form part of apart of a 0 kit kit 0 forfor a canopy a canopy for afor a vehicle, vehicle, typically typically comprising comprising a further a further side apanel, side panel, front a front panel panel and rear panel and aa rear panel (and/or (and/or other other panels panelssuch suchasasa ajunction junctionpanel), panel),shaped shapedto to be be flat flat

packed and packed andassembled. assembled.Each Each panel panel includes includes a lipwhich a lip whichisiscomplementally complementallyshaped shaped to to engage theliplipofofat engage the at least least one oneother otherpanel. panel.ToTo assemble assemble the canopy, the canopy, the of the lips lipsadjacent of adjacent panels are panels are located located in in abutment andare abutment and arethen thensecured securedtogether. together.TheThe kitkitmay may include include

5 thethe 5 necessary necessary attachment attachment meansmeans to attach to attach various various panelspanels to other to each each other and toand the to the vehicle vehicle (not (not shown, but for shown, but for instance instance as as described described in in PCT/IB2015/057124, published PCT/IB2015/057124, published

as as WO/2016/024494). WO/2016/024494).

As described As described above, above,when when assembled, assembled, the the roofroof panel panel 132 132 willwill meetmeet withwith respective respective

.0 side 'O sidepanels panelsandand endend panels panels at four at four "three "three panel panel joins"oror"three joins" panelcorner "threepanel joins". cornerjoins". Therefore, aa three Therefore, three panel panel join join will will be be defined at each defined at of the each of the four four operatively operatively upper upper

corners 131of ofthetheroof corners 131 roof panel panel 132, 132, as well as well astwo as at at operatively two operatively upper upper cornerscorners 133 of 133 of

the side the side panel panel130. 130.

25 TheThe 25 sideside panel panel 130 130 has has a pair a pair of firstand of first andsecond second lip lip portions134, portions 134,136 136 at at each each endend

thereof, located thereof, located in in the the corners corners 133 referred to 133 referred to above. above. ByBy way way of of example, example, the the lip lip portions 134, portions 134,136 136in inthe thezone zone "B""B" in Figures in Figures 5 and 5 and 6 will 6 will be described be described below.below.

Thefirst The first lip lip portion portion 134 andthe 134 and thesecond secondlip lip portion portion 136136 are are separate separate 90 degree 90 degree bends bends 30 at at 30 an an end end of of theside the sidepanel panel130. 130.The The liplipportions portions 134, 134, 136 136 may maybebebent bentstainless stainless steel steel portions. The portions. Theliplipportions portions 134134 are are longitudinally longitudinally offset offset and transversely and transversely overlapping. overlapping.

In other In words,when other words, whenthethe sideside panel panel 130viewed 130 is is viewed from from the thethe side, side, lipthe lip portions portions 134, 134, 136 are 136 areslightly slightly spaced spaced apart,andand apart, when when the panel the side side panel 130 is 130 is viewed viewed from thefrom the end or end or in cross-section, in cross-section, the the lip lipportions portions134, 134,136 136overlap. overlap. These aspectsare These aspects arealso alsoclearly clearly

8

shown shown inin Figures Figures 99and and10, 10,which whichillustrate illustrate aa prototype prototype of of the the side side panel panel 138 138 which 2020264401 06 Nov 2020

which

includesthe includes theoffset offsetand andoverlapping overlapping first first liplipportion portion140140 andand second second lip portion lip portion 142. 142.

Referring inin greater Referring greaterdetail detailtoto Figures Figures7 7andand 8, 8, thethe roof roof panel panel 132 132 has ahas a continuous continuous 90 90 5 degree 5 degree bendbend at each at each end end thereof thereof (this (this maymay be referred be referred to the to as as the "returnbend" "return bend" of of thethe roof panel roof panel 132), 132),defining defininga third a thirdliplipportion portion144 144 at at each each of the of the corners corners 131 131 of theofroof the roof panel 132. panel 132.A sealing A sealing material material in form in the the form of sealing of sealing foam146tape foam tape 146 is to is applied applied the to the interior of interior of the the roof roof panel 132, atat opposite panel 132, oppositesides sides thereof, thereof, extending extending alongalong the length the length of of the roof the roof panel panel 132. The sealing 132. The sealing foam foamtape tape146 146isisshown shownininanan"exploded" "exploded"manner manner in in 0 0 Figures77and Figures and8 8totoillustrate illustratethe thecomponents components of the of the roof roof panelpanel 132clearly. 132 more more clearly. As is As is evident fromFigure evident from Figure8 in 8 inparticular, particular,the thesealing sealing foam foam tapetape 146a has 146 has bend benda 145 145 at each at each

of its end of its regions,corresponding end regions, corresponding to bend to the the defining bend defining the the third lipthird lip 144 portion portion for 144 for

conforming conforming to to theshape the shape of the of the third third lip lip portion portion 144144 whenwhen the canopy the canopy is assembled. is assembled.

5 EachEach 5 lip lip thirdthird portion portion 144 144 is configured is configured with awith to mate to mate a corresponding corresponding second second lip lip portion portion 136 such 136 suchthat thatthe thethird third lip lip portion 144isis located portion 144 located adjacent adjacenttotoand and substantially substantially flush flush with with

corresponding aa corresponding firstlip first lip portion portion 134. 134.TheThe design design and and advantages advantages of this of this configuration configuration

will be will be described described iningreater greaterdetail detailwith withreference reference to the to the examples examples in Figures in Figures 11 11 to 18 to 18 below. below.

.0 'O

Referring to Referring to Figures 11 to Figures 11 to 13, 13, the the side side panel panel 138 mateswith 138 mates with the the roof roof panel panel 150 150byby meansofofcomplementally means complementally shaped shaped spigots spigots 152 152 and and sockets sockets 154 the 154 and andpanels the panels 138, 138, 150 are 150 are secured securedtoto each eachother otherbybysuitable suitable fasteners fasteners (not (not shown in Figures shown in Figures 11 11 to to 13, 13, but visible but visibleininFigure Figure7). 7).The The spigots spigots 152 are located 152 are located on on aa bent bent surface surface of of the the side side 25 panel 25 panel 138. 138. ThisThis bentbent surface surface is connected is connected to bend to the the bend which which forms forms the second the second lip lip portion 142 portion and the 142 and the second secondlip lip portion portion 142 142 extends extends atat aa 90 90 degree degreeangle anglerelative relative to to the bent the bent surface. surface. The The bent bent surface surface of of the the side side panel panel 138 138 isis positioned positioned on on aa complemental surfaceofofthe complemental surface theroof roofpanel panel150 150andand adjacent adjacent to to an an operatively operatively vertical vertical

section section of of the the roof roofpanel panel 150, 150, which which defines defines the the sockets sockets 154, 154, when thespigots when the spigots152 152 30 areare 30 insertedinto inserted intothe thesockets sockets154. 154.

Whenininthe When the mating mating condition condition (see (see Figures Figures 12 12 and and 13; 13; Figure Figure1111shows shows aadisassembled disassembled

condition), an outer condition), an outersurface surface 156 156 of the of the first first lip lip portion portion is substantially is substantially flush flush withwith and and

laterally adjacent laterally to an adjacent to anouter outersurface surface158158 of the of the third third liplip portion160160 portion on the on the roofroof panel panel

9

150. Furthermore, Furthermore,ananouter outersurface surface162162 of of thethe second lip lip portiondirectly directlyfaces facesanan 2020264401 06 Nov 2020

150. second portion

inner surface inner surface164 164of ofthethethird thirdliplipportion portion160. 160.This This design design ensures ensures thatgap that the theingap the in the three panel three paneljoin join area areaofofthe thecanopies, canopies,as as described described in the in the "Background" "Background" sectionsection above above and shown and shown in in Figures Figures to is 1 to1 4, 4, substantially is substantially obviated. obviated.

5 5

Figures 14 Figures 14 and and1515also alsoshow show a fourthliplipportion a fourth portion 166 166defined definedbybya abend bend in in theendend the

panel 168 panel 168 (e.g. (e.g. front frontor orrear) rear)which whichengages engages with with the the side side panel panel 138 and roof 138 and roof panel panel 150 at 150 at the the three threepanel paneljoin. join. AsAsisisclear clearfrom fromFigure Figure 15,15, thethe fourth fourth lip lip portion166166 portion mates mates

with both with both the thefirst first lip lipportion portion 140 140 and thethird and the third lip lip portion portion 160 andisisdirectly 160 and directly secured securedto to 0 thethe 0 firstliplipportion first portion140 140 by by a suitable a suitable fastener fastener 180.180. In other In other words,words, a face aofface the of the fourth fourth lip portion lip 166faces portion 166 facesthethe outer outer surfaces surfaces offirst of the the first lip portion lip portion 140theand 140 and thelip third third lip portion 160. portion 160.

TheApplicant The Applicanthashas found found thatthat the the first first liplipportion portion140140 andand third third lip lip portion portion 160160 needneed not not 5 be exactly 5 be exactly flush: flush: at least at least a near a near flush flush arrangement arrangement in combination in combination with thewith the overlapping overlapping

feature has feature beenfound has been foundtotobebeeffective effectiveinin reducing reducing ororpreventing preventingleaks. leaks.Figure Figure16 16 shows shows anan example example of three of the the three panel panel cornercorner join join 172 172 from from the the outside, outside, i.e. the i.e. partthe of part of

the canopy the canopythat thatwill willbebeexposed exposed to the to the elements elements in in use. use.

.0 Figure 'O Figure15 15 also also shows shows the portion the portion of sealing of the the sealing foam foam tapewhich tape 170 170 is which is located located

betweenthethe between outer outer surface surface 162 162 of the of the second second lip portion lip portion 142theand 142 and thesurface inner inner surface 164 164 of of the third lip the third lip portion portion 160. Thisportion 160. This portioncorresponds corresponds to bend to the the bend in theinsealing the sealing foam foam tape 146 tape 146described described with with reference reference to Figures to Figures 7 and 78.and 8.

25 By By 25 wayway of further of further example, example, Figures Figures 17 and 17 and 18 show 18 show partsparts of the of the andexterior, interiorand interior exterior, respectively, of respectively, of an an assembled assembled vehicle vehicle canopy canopy incorporating incorporating the joining the panel panel joining arrangement describedabove arrangement described aboveat at threepanel a athree paneljoin join 174. 174.

Another embodiment Another embodimentof of thethepanel panel joiningarrangement joining arrangementis is shown shown in Figures in Figures 19 19 to to 22.22.

30 These 30 These Figures Figures illustratea aside illustrate sidepanel panel230, 230,a aroof roofpanel panel232 232and andananend end panel panel 268268 (in(in

this case this theend case the endpanel panel 268268 is aisrear a rear panel panel that that is positioned is positioned adjacent adjacent to or against to or against a a vehicle cab, vehicle cab,inin use). use).

10

It should should be be understood that the side panel panel 230, roof panel 232 and and end endpanel panel268 268 2020264401 06 Nov 2020

It understood that the side 230, roof panel 232

mayform may form part part of of a kit a kit forfor a canopy a canopy for afor a vehicle, vehicle, typically typically comprising comprising a further a further side side panel and panel anda afront frontpanel panel (and/or (and/or other other panels panels such such as a junction as a junction panel),panel), shaped shaped to be to be flat packed flat packed and and assembled. Eachpanel assembled. Each panelincludes includesaa lip lip which which isiscomplementally complementally shaped shaped

5 to to 5 engage engage lip lip the the of of at at leastoneone least other other panel. panel. To To assemble assemble the canopy, the canopy, the of the lips lips of adjacent panels are adjacent panels are located located in in abutment and are abutment and are then then secured secured together. together. The Thekit kit may may include the include the necessary attachmentmeans necessary attachment meansto to attachvarious attach variouspanels panelstotoeach eachother otherand and to the to vehicle (not the vehicle (not shown, shown,but butfor forinstance instanceasasdescribed described in PCT/IB2015/057124, in PCT/IB2015/057124,

published as published as WO/2016/024494). WO/2016/024494). 0 0

As described As described above, above,when when assembled, assembled, the the roofroof panel panel 232 232 engages engages with respective with respective

side panelsand side panels and endend panels panels at four at four "three "three panelpanel joins", joins", one ofone of is which which is located located in the in the

zone"D" zone "D"ofofFigures Figures21 21 andand 22 its 22 and andlocation its location is indicated is indicated by reference by reference numeralnumeral 290. 290. Thearrangement The arrangement at this at this specific specific zonezone is described is described below below to to illustrate illustrate certaincertain aspectsaspects

5 of of 5 thetheinvention. invention.

The side The side panel panel 230 230has hasa apair pairofoffirst first and and second lip portions second lip portions234, 234, 236 236 at at each each end end

thereof, located thereof, located ininthe theoperatively operativelyupper uppercorner cornerzones zones referred referredtotoabove. above. By wayof By way of example, theliplipportions example, the portions234, 234,236236 in in thethe zone zone "C" "C" in Figure in Figure 20 will 20 will be described be described below. below.

.0 'O

Thefirst The first lip lip portion portion 234 andthe 234 and thesecond secondlip lip portion portion 236236 are are separate separate 90 degree 90 degree bends bends at at an endofofthe an end theside sidepanel panel230. 230. TheThe lip portions lip portions 234,234, 236bemay 236 may bentbe bent stainless stainless steel steel portions. The portions. Theliplipportions portions234234 are are longitudinally longitudinally offset offset and transversely and transversely overlapping. overlapping.

In other In words,when other words, whenthethe sideside panel panel 230viewed 230 is is viewed from from the thethe side, side, lip the lip portions portions 234, 234, 25 236236 25 areare slightlyspaced slightly spaced apart,andand apart, when when the the sideside panel panel 230 230 is viewed is viewed fromfrom the end, the end,

the lip the lip portions 234, 236 portions 234, 236overlap, overlap, as as is is clear clear from from thethe hidden hidden detail detail in Figure in Figure 20. 20. The The first lip first lipportion portion 234 is located 234 is located atat the theend endof of thethe side side panel panel 230 while 230 while the second the second lip lip portion 236 portion 236isis spaced spaced slightlyinwardly slightly inwardly along along the the length length of the of the sideside panel panel 230 230 to to define define

spaceforforreceiving a space receiving a third a third lip lip portion portion on roof on the the roof panel panel 232 as 232 will as be will be described described

30 below. 30 below.

The roof The roof panel panel 232 232 has hasa acontinuous continuous9090degree degree bend bend at each at each end end thereof thereof (this (this maymay

be referred be referredtotoasasthe the"return "returnbend" bend" of the of the roofroof panel panel 232),232), defining defining thirdportion a lip a third lip portion 244 at each 244 at eachofofthe the four four corners corners ofof the the roof roof panel panel 232. 232. A A sealing sealing materialmaymay material be be

11

applied to the theinterior of the interior of the roof roofpanel panel232 232 as as with with described reference to Figures 7 2020264401 06 Nov 2020

applied to described reference to Figures 7

and aboveand and 88 above andits its shape shapemay may conform conform to that to that of of thethird the third lip lip portion portion244 244 when the when the

canopy canopy isis assembled. assembled.TheThe sealing sealing material material may may be located be located between between thelip the third third lip portion 244 portion 244and andthethe second second lip lip portion portion 236 236 in the in the assembled assembled condition. condition.

5 5

Eachthird Each third lip lip portion portion 244 is configured 244 is configuredtotomate mate with with a corresponding a corresponding second second lip portion lip portion

236 suchthat 236 such thatthe thethird third lip lip portion portion 244 244isis located locatedadjacent adjacenttoto and and substantially substantially flush flush with with

corresponding aa corresponding firstlip first lipportion portion234. 234.In In other other words, words, whenwhen the canopy the canopy is assembled, is assembled,

the third the third lip lipportion portion 244 244 slides slides behind (i.e. over behind (i.e. the outer over the outerface) face)ofofthe the second secondliplipportion portion 0 0 236 andthethethird 236 and thirdlip lip portion portion244 244becomes becomes oriented oriented substantially substantially parallel parallel to thetofirst the first lip lip

portion 234. portion 234.

The side panel The side panel 230 230and andthe theroof roofpanel 232 panel232 areconnected are connected by complemental by complemental mating mating

formations and formations fasteners as and fasteners as already already described described above. Whenininthe above. When themating/assembled mating/assembled 5 condition, 5 condition, an outer an outer surface surface of theoffirst the first lip lip 234 234 portion portion (the (the surface surface shown shown in Figure in Figure 20) 20) is substantially is substantially flush flush with with and laterally adjacent and laterally to an adjacent to anouter outersurface surface(the (thesurface surface shown shown

in Figure in 20) of Figure 20) of the the third third lip lip portion portion 244 onthe 244 on theroof roofpanel panel232. 232.

An outer An outersurface surfaceofofthe thesecond secondlip lip portion portion 236236 (the(the surface surface shown shown in Figure in Figure 20) directly 20) directly

.0 faces 'O facesan an inner inner surfaceof ofthe surface thethird third lip lip portion portion 244 in the 244 in the assembled condition. This assembled condition. This design ensures design ensures that that thethe gapgap in the in the three three panel panel join join areaarea of canopies, of the the canopies, as described as described

in the in the "Background" sectionabove "Background" section above andand shown shown in Figures in Figures 1 to 1 to 4, is 4, is substantially substantially

obviated, reducingor or obviated, reducing preventing preventing leakage leakage especially especially through through the292area the area 292 indicated indicated in in Figure 22. Figure 22. 25 25 fourth lip A fourth A lipportion portion266 266 defined defined by by aa 90 90 degree bendinin an degree bend an upper upperregion regionofofthe the end end panel 268 panel 268which which engages engages with with the side the side panelpanel 230roof 230 and andpanel roof 232 panel 232three at the at thepanel three panel join. As join. Asisis clear clearfrom fromFigure Figure 20,20, thethe fourth fourth lip lip portion portion 266 266 is configured is configured to with to mate mate with both the both the first first lip lipportion portion234 234 and the third and the third lip lip portion portion 244, e.g. the 244, e.g. the face of the face of end panel the end panel 30 268 268 30 whichwhich defines defines the fourth the fourth lip portion lip portion 266 can266 be can be to clipped clipped to both both the first the lip first lip portion portion 234 on the 234 on the side side panel panel 230 230and andthe thethird third lip lip portion portion 266 266 on the roof on the roof panel panel 232 using 232 using

suitable fasteners.TheThe suitable fasteners. outer outer face face of fourth of the the fourth lip portion lip portion 266faces 266 then thenthe faces the outer outer

surfaces surfaces ofofthe thefirst first lip lip portion portion 234 234andand the the third third lip lip portion portion 244 244 when when the are the parts parts are assembled assembled asasshown shownin inFigures Figures2121and and 22.22.

12

2020264401 06 Nov 2020

The Applicantbelieves The Applicant believesthat thatthe thepanel panel joiningarrangement joining arrangement described described herein herein will will

preventororatat least prevent least reduce reducewater water leaks leaks and and possibly possibly otherother unwanted unwanted particleparticle ingress ingress at at the three the three panel panel joins joins of ofCKD vehicle canopies. CKD vehicle canopies. Leaks Leaksmay maybe be prevented prevented or or reduced reduced

5 by the 5 by the extension extension of "return of the the "return bend"bend" on theon thepanel roof roof panel up to up to the theofends ends of the the roof roof panel, panel, and by providing and by providing offset offset and and overlapping overlapping bend lips on bend lips on the the side side panel panel which mate with which mate with the roof the roof panel. Theend panel. The endpanels panelsthen then mate mate snugly snugly withwith the the roofroof andand sideside panels panels to to define anenhanced define an enhanced three three panel panel join.join.

0 TheThe 0 addition addition of sealing of sealing tape tape to this to this arrangement arrangement may assist may assist in sealing in sealing along along the the adjoining adjoining edge betweenthe edge between theroof roof panel panel and and side side panel panel components. components.This Thismay may obviate obviate

the need the for aa customer need for or end customer or end user userto to apply apply additional additional sealant. It may sealant. It also reduce may also reduce

the costs the costs associated associated with with thethe product product and and reduce reduce time required time required to seal to seal the the canopy. canopy.

5 Throughout 5 thisthis Throughout specificationthethewords specification words andand "comprise" "comprise" "include", "include", or or variationssuch variations such as "comprises","includes", as "comprises", "includes","including" "including" or or "comprising", "comprising", willwill be be understood understood to imply to imply the the inclusion of inclusion of aa stated stated element, element,integer integer or or step, step, or or group group of elements, of elements, integers integers or steps, or steps,

but not but the exclusion not the exclusion of of any any other other element, element, integer integer or or step, step, or or group group ofof elements, elements, integers or integers or steps. steps.

Claims

CLAIMS 02 Oct 2025

1. A panel joining arrangement for a vehicle canopy, the vehicle canopy including at least one three panel join, wherein the panel joining arrangement comprises first 5 and second lip portions formed in a side panel of the vehicle canopy, the first and second lip portions being longitudinally offset and transversely overlapping in relation to a length of the side panel, the panel joining arrangement further comprising a third 2020264401

lip portion formed in a roof panel of the vehicle canopy, wherein the third lip portion is configured to mate with the second lip portion at the three panel join of the vehicle 10 canopy such that the third lip portion is located adjacent to and substantially flush with the first lip portion.

2. The panel joining arrangement according to claim 1 which is configured such that, in an assembled condition of the vehicle canopy, an outer surface of the first lip 15 portion is substantially flush with and laterally adjacent to an outer surface of the third lip portion.

3. The panel joining arrangement according to claim 2 which is further configured such that, in the assembled condition of the vehicle canopy, an outer surface of the 20 second lip portion, or at least a part thereof, directly faces an inner surface of the third lip portion.

4. The panel joining arrangement according to claim 3 which further includes a sealing material which, in the assembled condition, is located between the outer 25 surface of the second lip portion and the inner surface of the third lip portion.

5. The panel joining arrangement according to claim 4, wherein the sealing material is sealing foam.

30 6. The panel joining arrangement according to claim 1 which further includes a fourth lip portion formed in an end panel of the vehicle canopy and configured to mate with at least the third lip portion at the three panel join.

7. The panel joining arrangement according to claim 6, wherein the fourth lip 02 Oct 2025

portion is configured also to mate with the first lip portion.

8. The panel joining arrangement according to claim 6, wherein the end panel 5 defining the fourth lip portion is a front panel or a rear panel of the vehicle canopy.

9. The panel joining arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the first, second 2020264401

and third lip portions are formed by bends in the side panel and the roof panel.

10 10. The panel joining arrangement according to claim 9, wherein the bends are 90 degree bends or near 90 degree bends.

11. The panel joining arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the third lip portion is defined by a return bend of the roof panel, wherein the first lip portion is located at 15 an end of the side panel and the second lip portion is located inwardly along the length of the side panel, thereby to define a space for receiving the third lip portion in an assembled condition of the vehicle canopy, the space and the second lip being longitudinally offset from and transversely overlapping in relation to the length of the side panel, and the space and the first portion being longitudinally aligned and 20 transversely adjacent in relation to the length of the side panel.

12. A kit for a vehicle canopy, the kit including a panel joining arrangement according to claim 1.

25 13. A vehicle canopy which includes four three panel joins and the panel joining arrangement according to claim 1 associated with each of the three panel joins.

14. A vehicle canopy which includes at least a side panel and a roof panel engaging with an end panel at a three panel join of the vehicle canopy, wherein first and second 30 lip portions are formed in the side panel, the first and second lip portions being longitudinally offset and transversely overlapping in relation to a length of the vehicle canopy, wherein a third lip portion is formed in the roof panel, the third lip portion mating with the second lip portion at the three panel join such that the third lip portion is located adjacent to and substantially flush with the first lip portion.

15. The vehicle canopy according to claim 14, wherein a fourth lip portion is formed in the end panel and mates with at least the third lip portion at the three panel join.